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Does Acura Require Premium Gas?

Many Tustin drivers in the market for a luxury car, such as any of the options in the Acura lineup, are under the impression that the vehicle they choose will require premium gasoline. However, this is not always the case. According to Acura, premium gas is a necessity for the Acura NSX, but it is not required for the MDX, RDX, TLX, RLX, and ILX (it is recommended). The answer to the question, ”Do all Acuras require premium gas?” is no — but higher octane fuel is a good idea for numerous reasons.

What’s the Difference Between Premium Gas vs. Regular Gas?

When looking for the main difference between regular and premium gas, it pretty much comes down to the octane level. Each type of gasoline has an octane rating:

Regular: 87 octane rating

Midrange: 88 to 90 octane rating

Premium: 91 to 94 octane rating

When you use gasoline with a higher octane level, there is less of a chance that combustion will occur at the wrong time. This is known as pre-ignition or an engine knock because this occurrence sounds like knocking. Higher-octane gas is more resistant to knocking, so you can feel more confident on the Costa Mesa roadways.

Why Use Premium Gas?

Modern-day vehicles, like the Acura models listed above, are frequently designed with knock sensors included to prevent pre-ignition. While engine knocking may not be a huge concern, you won’t be able to experience the full performance potential of your luxury car if you opt for regular gasoline rather than premium gas.

Acura vehicles, in particular, are created with high performance in mind. You will often find turbocharged or supercharged engines throughout the lineup, which use a higher compression ratio. That’s why high-octane — or premium — gas is recommended instead of regular fuel for most Acura models and required for the Acura NSX.

Take Advantage of Acura Performance in Anaheim

Acura cars and SUVs deliver exciting power from a range of engines. When you opt for premium gasoline, you know your vehicle is performing exactly the way it was intended to perform. To experience the performance prowess of the Acura lineup, set up a test drive at Weir Canyon Acura. You can even learn more about is Acura a luxury car. Contact us today with any questions about the Acura ILX AWD, our inventory, and more.